Killer Faces 70 Years in Prison for Ambushing and Murdering a Man Leaving a Corner Store

For Immediate Release 3/12/2018

Southwest Baltimore— Cory Williams was found guilty of the second degree murder of Deontae Bluefort, as well as using a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence and conspiracy to use a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence. His co-defendant, Rodney Brooks, was found guilty of conspiracy to use a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence.

Assistant State’s Attorney David Owens prosecuted the case.

On February 9, 2017, Deontae Bluefort walked out of the back of his home located in the 200 block of North Hilton Street through the alley to Kossuth Avenue to a corner store. At the same time, Williams and Brooks were walking along Kossuth Avenue, headed to the same store. Williams and Brooks developed a plan to rob Bluefort. Brooks handed a pistol to Williams, who then waited in the alley for Bluefort to return. As the victim turned into the alley, he was confronted by Williams who shot him five times.

Bluefort was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators used video surveillance to develop a witness—who later identified Williams and Brooks.

“It is hard to understand how two men would throw their lives away by robbing and murdering a man on his way to a corner store,” said State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby. “The violence we are seeing in Baltimore is completely unnecessary, and my prosecutors are working tirelessly to ensure that those who perpetrate this utterly senseless violence are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I pray that Mr. Bluefort’s loved ones find some closure in this verdict.”

Williams and Brooks are scheduled for sentencing on May 14, 2018. Williams faces 70 years in prison, while Brooks could serve up to 20 years for his role.